June means that it’s officially time to kick off summer! With the new season comes so many ways to soak up the sun, enjoy local attractions, and indulge in all things uniquely Fairfax County. From cicada-mania to fun festivals, here's our roundup of things to do this month.
Bug Out with Cicada-Themed Activities
They're here, they're there, they're everywhere! After 17 years, the Brood X Cicadas have arrived by the billions in Fairfax County - and their mating songs are here to stay at least until the beginning of July. Discover their epic lives of birth, romance, danger, and death with a naturalist-guided outdoor presentation or pop-up entomology lab at Huntley Meadows Park. Investigate their life cycle with a guided exploration at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park. Don't forget to snap photos of your adventures and send them to us for a chance to win your own Cicada Prize Pack!
Vintage Virginia Wine & Food Festival / NOVA Wine Run
Over 150 wines. Over 50 beers. The hottest food trucks in the Washington-Metropolitan region. Does it really get any better? On June 5th, the 39th Annual Vintage Virginia Wine and Food Festival returns to Bull Run Special Events Center with a bang. If you'd like to work up an appetite, you can "chase the chardonnay" at the NOVA Wine Run happening in the morning before the festival begins.
Enjoy Nostalgic Fun at the Carnival
Nothing screams summer like a mouth full of cotton candy, the soft glow of a Ferris Wheel, and echoes of scream-laughter booming from thrill rides. Experience the sights, sounds, and aromas of the electrifying midway with exciting rides and games for all ages and a variety of tasty fair food. The Fair Oaks Mall Carnival is coming to town from June 3rd through June 13th - a perfect way to kick off the summer with nostalgic fun!
Paddles Up!
One of the most well-known landmarks in Fairfax County is the mighty Potomac River, running 405 miles long into the Chesapeake Bay. There's nothing like feeling the wind in your hair and gliding through miles of natural scenic landscapes. Whether you're kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing, there are plenty of places to go. Find your picture-perfect paddling adventure here on our boating page. If you'd prefer to embark on a guided tour this month, enjoy the Twilight by Kayak tour on June 25th at Burke Lake Park to be amazed at a stunning sunset and abundant wildlife.
Revisit Some Museums
Image courtesy National Museum of the United States Army
After temporary closures due to the pandemic, the National Museum of the United States Army will reopen to the public on June 14th - the 246th birthday of the U.S. Army. June itself is recognized as Army Heritage Month and booking a (free) ticket to the new museum is a great way to celebrate and honor the people, the stories, and the sacrifices made by members of this military branch. For a sneak peek, check out these 10 Must-See Experiences at the museum and get your timed-entry tickets through the museum's website. If you like museums, don't forget to also book your timed-entry ticket to the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, which reopened in early May after a temporary pandemic-related closure as well. In addition to holding one of the world's largest collections of air and space artifacts, Star Wars fans can rejoice at the ability to watch Poe Dameron's X-wing Starfighter under preservation work from the overhang at the Restoration Hangar.
Early July 4th Celebrations
Begin your Independence Day celebration with a bang! Get an early start on the commemoration of American Independence at George Washington's Mount Vernon. Relax and enjoy a patriotic evening that includes dazzling fireworks and musical performances! Meet people from George Washington's world as you hear about their experiences during the War for Independence. Visit Washington’s Tomb at night—this event is one of the few times this area is open in the evening. Concessions from the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant will also be available. For more Independence Day festivities coming soon, bookmark this page and check back soon as more events will be added.
Juneteenth
It is known as "America's Second Independence Day." Yet there is no battle marking that day. No birthday of a new nation. Not even an anniversary of a document. Rather Juneteenth, the commemoration of freedom from slavery, commemorates June 19, 1865 - the date federal troops arrived in Galveston, TX to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation and free the last Americans held in captivity. There are several ways you can mark this important date in American history here in Fairfax County - here are a few to add to your list this Juneteenth.
Tysons Corner Center Summerfest
Image Courtesy Barrel & Bushel
As if world-class shopping wasn't enough of a reason to fawn over Tysons Corner Center, they're serving up excitement all summer long on The Plaza! SUMMERFEST is filled with six months of activations and events, such as live music, art, fitness, festivals, and more. See below for some of the exciting events that will be held during June:
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Fit Club Senior Fit |
Live Music |
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Bingo and Brews |
Art on the Plaza with A/R Workshop |
"Wine" Down At The Vineyard
Wine lovers, rejoice! Who can resist a glass of chilled wine amid the scenic Virginia foothills on a warm summer day? Fairfax County is home to two expansive vineyards: Paradise Springs Winery and The Winery at Bull Run. There's even a micro-winery on Richmond Highway - Woodlawn Press Winery. Whether you enjoy a refreshing rosé, heavy-bodied red, or fruity white, there's always something to satisfy any palette at our local wineries. Get started by checking out these 6 summer wines to try this season in Fairfax County.
As you can see, there are many ways to spend this month in Fairfax County! What activities will you do first? Don't forget to tag us on social media using #FXVA and @VisitFairfax for a chance to be featured on our website or in future posts!
